VSAT Internet: Delivering Smooth Internet Access Across Vast Regions  

Even with the popularity of high speed mobile Internet systems like LTE and fiber-to-home technologies, there are many places in the world where satellite technologies like VSAT are extensively used. In fact, there are regions where VSAT networks are competing with primary corporate WAN connectivity and home Internet broadband access. The use of VSAT Internet in Africa is especially quite high.

What is VSAT?

VSAT is the acronym for Very Small Aperture Terminals. VSAT Technology features three major components, the satellite, a central hub, and a number of smaller nodes. The central hub features a large dish antenna. The smaller nodes or dish antennas that are featured in the VSAT system are kept at various remote locations that form Star topology together with the usage of the satellite network. Even Mesh topologies are possible for small networks. Basically, all the nodes tend to communicate with the central hub through the satellite as the medium for effective communication. In case any kind of additional network has to be integrated with the VSAT system, it can be done at a NOC (Network Operations Center) at the central hub. Detailed insights into VSAT Equipment in Africa and more can be found online. The use of Geo-Synchronous satellites has especially increased in the last few years for WAN/ broadband Internet connectivity as it can have the capacity to deliver permanent coverage over a fixed area.

Extensive coverage of VSAT internet

Providing commendable internet access in remote locations has been among the biggest strength of satellite networks, including VSAT. With their assistance, seamless internet connectivity can be provided to the regions where traditional terrestrial networks cannot reach, including the deserts, jungles and suburban regions of Africa. One would just need the aid of a good VSAT Engineer in Africa to install such a network.

A satellite in the Geo Synchronous orbit would have the capability to cover around 33% of the surface of the earth, and essentially provide internet connectivity to any region coming under it. A satellite may even focus on a certain high-density region or multiple satellites may also work together to deliver global coverage. A VSAT network today has the capability to carry out both data and latency-sensitive applications like voice and video. This is among the regions why DTH (Cable TV), Internet Radio and other technologies have found their use. Even IP based Multi-cast applications such as audio and video streaming are made possible.